Mono-method research approach and scholar-policy disengagement in Nigerian communication research

Abstract

Current thinking in social science research prioritises designing research to solve specific social problems. Besides, robust research findings that proffer practical solutions to specific social problems stand a better chance of appealing to policymakers and actors. Communication research in Nigeria has a history of policy relevance that has aligned with this trend. However, at present the field is characterised by the twin problem of a mono-method approach to research and scholar-policy disengagement. While mono-method research is often weak in providing comprehensive solutions to social problems, scholar-policy disengagement disconnects the research focus from urgent, real-life policy issues. These problems question the social relevance of communication research in today’s Nigeria. This chapter, therefore, contributes to the scholarly conversation in this regard by exploring methodological orientation and policy engagement of current communication research in Nigeria. To reaffirm the place of communication research in Nigeria, scholars need to reinvent the practice of identifying policy gaps and of designing their research to fill the gaps. A mixed-method research approach offers multiple and more reliable sources of evidence, which leverage the strengths of quantitative and qualitative research paradigms in finding answers to social problems. It has been found to produce broad-based empirical evidence that is more appealing to policymakers. Communication researchers in Nigeria should maximise this core potential of the design, as its increased adoption will enable them to produce research evidence that is not only appealing to policymakers but is also comprehensive enough to address the country’s myriad policy problems.